France is perhaps not renowned for its lakes in the same way as Italy or Canada, but it is home to some magnificent stretches of water. What could be better when camping in France than emerging from your tent to the reflection of the hills in the water, and the prospect of a day of fun by the lakeside?
Lac du Bourget
Covering over 4,000 hectares, Lake Bourget is both the largest and the deepest natural lake in France There is plenty for campers to do both on and around the lake, the favourite activities often being cycling and hiking. There are at least a dozen trails starting out from the lake, which you can take on foot or by cycle. Some of these trails pass through alpine forests and olive groves, whilst others climb headlands and plateaux, offering sensational views of the Alps.
Located around ten kilometres North of Chambery, the most notable town on the shores of Lake Bourget is Aix les bains. The town was named during the time of the Roman Empire, when it was famous for its baths. Centuries later, people still head to Aix les bains to enjoy the hot springs. Thermal baths are certainly a great way for weary travellers to relax while camping in France.
Aix les bains is also famous for its Saturday morning food market, where you can wander through the stalls, indulging in some of the local saucisson and cheeses.
Lac D’Annecy
The second largest lake in France, Lake Annecy is also known as Europe’s cleanest lake. The lake is sourced by mountain streams, and a spring that provides up to 30 per cent of its clear waters. Activities on the lake include boat tours, sailing, windsurfing and even diving. But if you don’t fancy getting your feet wet, you can happily while away the day on one of the beaches lining the lake. Those who prefer land based activities might even want to hire a bike and have a go at the cycle track that goes right the way around the lake.
The closest town to the lake is Annecy itself, but there are other smaller towns dotted around; Talloirs, Veyrier and Menthon St Bernard are particularly quaint villages that are always popular with those camping in France. Water taxis run between these towns during the summer months.
Lac de Chalain
Lac de Chalain was formed by the shifting of glaciers over many years, and has been classified as a protected zone. Restrictions are now in place prohibiting the use of motor boats, jet skis and other motorized vessels, ensuring that Lac de Chalain is a haven of peace and tranquillity for people camping in France. Take a gentle swim in the clear glacial waters, go for a gentle sail in a dinghy, or try your hand at fishing for a day. With an abundance of species such as perch and pike in the lake, you are likely to have a good catch. If fishing by the lake is a little placid for your tastes, indulge in some fly fishing – the fast moving Ain River, 2 kilometres away from Lac de Chalain is bursting its banks with trout. Peaceful and undisturbed, Lac de Chalain is the perfect place to retreat and relax.
The lakes of France may not be the most infamous but this affords them a wonderful individuality. Any one of these fantastic lakes really can be one of the best locations to go camping in France, with scenery, activities and unforgettable experiences all within a stone’s throw.
Author Resource:
Lorraine Waddell is the brand and advertising manager of Canvas Holidays, a leading European camping operator that provides the best selection of sites for camping in France (http://www.canvasholidays.co.uk/destinations/france-604-0.aspx ) With over 40 years of experience, Canvas offer superb camping holidays to France, Spain and a total of 9 European countries.
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